The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Oregon
By Christy Articola|Published May 04, 2023
×
Christy Articola
Author
Christy Articola has lived in Colorado since 2013 and considers herself a Centennial State enthusiast and expert through and through. She's based in Denver metro, but over the past decade, she has traveled to every corner, river, village, park, town, and city in the state and continues to explore it deeper and further whenever she can. Christy simply can't get enough of Colorado, and loves sharing all her adventures with you through Only In Your State! She graduated with a degree in journalism from Fordham University and is thrilled to be working as a full time travel writer for this and other sites - she finally found her perfect niche - and is so grateful for that.
Do you love outdoor activities & adventures in Oregon? We are so lucky to live in a state that gives us so many opportunities to experience the great outdoors. In celebration of Great Outdoors Month, we’ve put together this two-day itinerary for you to enjoy some of the very best outdoor activities that The Beaver State has to offer. Starting near Grants Pass and ending at Diamond Lake, you’ll raft, hike, explore, and enjoy some of the incredible beauty along the Rogue Umpqua National Scenic Byway. You’ll love everything about this fun outdoor adventure. Read on to learn more about it and start planning your trip today!
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
If you want to customize this trip based on your starting and ending location, you can use this interactive map to assist.
Go Whitewater Rafting On The Rogue River Near Grants Pass and Gold Hill
This two-day road trip starts with a splash — literally! You'll start your adventure by taking a whitewater rafting trip on the Rogue River near Gold Hill. Without a doubt, this is one of the best rivers in Oregon for rafting and floating.
The Rogue River has all types of water — so there's something for everyone along it. You can go on half or full-day float trips that don't go much above Class III rapids if that's what works for you.
Or, if you're looking for a rafting adventure with a bit more adrenaline, you can find those on the Rogue River, too! There are plenty of opportunities for Class IV and Class V river trips here as well. No matter what you choose, rafting is a great way to start your Oregon Great Outdoors Month adventure!
Stay In This Tiny House In The Woods Near Shady Cove
After a busy first day of rafting on the Rogue, it's time to take a load off and relax. There's no better place to do exactly that than in a woodsy vacation rental with a hot tub, like this one. It's only a thirty-minute drive from rafting!
When you wake up in the morning, you'll be treated to spectacular views — and you'll be all rested and ready for day two!
Advertisement
Hike To An Elevated Viewpoint Near McLeod
After breakfast, a short, 15-minute drive will take you to MacGregor Park in McLeod. From there, you can hop on the Viewpoint Mike Trail for a moderately challenging hike with incredible views.
The entire hike, out and back, should take you about three hours to complete. You'll start gaining elevation right away, but remember — it's downhill on the way back!
When you get to the top viewpoint, you'll be amazed by the beauty of Lost Creek Lake below! Take some time up there to relax and take it all in before you head back down.
Check Out Some Waterfalls At Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint
The next stop on your adventure is just another 15 minutes up the road. Do you want to see some waterfalls? The Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint is full of them — and they're quick and easy to get to as well.
Pearsony Falls, Mill Creek Dr, Prospect, OR 97536, USA
If you don't feel like walking anymore, though, you can view Avenue of the Boulders without any effort. It's visible from the bridge on Mill Creek Drive.
On the other hand, if you're willing to hike a bit more - you can see Barr Creek Falls, too. The trail to it is a mile and a half in length. It's no surprise that the Rogue Umpqua National Scenic Byway is also known as the Highway of Waterfalls!
Relax And Dine On A Patio On Diamond Lake
After two days of rafting, hiking, and waterfalls, you're probably ready to relax a bit! Next, drive 50 minutes north to Diamond Lake Resort on Diamond Lake.
Is this a perfect southern Oregon adventure in the great outdoors or what? We hope you love this itinerary and enjoy adventuring in this part of the state. We are so lucky to have all of these wonderful places right in our backyard. And – this is only the beginning! There are so many amazing places to explore in our great state. Be sure to get out there and experience it all! Have a great summer, everyone!
